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Hardman and Hedges Complete Surfing Champions Trophy Line Up at Four Seasons Maldives
Maldives Promotion House – The final two contestants in “the world’s most luxurious surfing event” have been named as two-time World Champion Damien Hardman (Australia) and 2005 Women’s World Champion Chelsea Hedges (Australia). Both will compete in Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy from August 27 to September 2, 2012.
Hardman returns to the competition for the second consecutive year, having taken winner Mark Occhilupo to some very close heats in last year’s inaugural event. Nicknamed “Iceman” for his ferocious concentration and nerve-free attitude, Hardman’s wave precision and tactical genius make him a dangerous opponent in any contest. His previous experience of the competition and its waves will be a distinct advantage – and his memories of last year’s event means he’s never looked forward to a contest quite so much before: “I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to go on some pretty special trips but last year’s Surfing Champions Trophy was the highlight of my life so far. Great waves, great service and great vibes: needless to say I can’t wait be part of the contest again!”
Chelsea Hedges (nee Georgeson), the 2005 Women’s World Champion, has been making waves in the surfing world since she was 13 years old. Highly masterful and with youth on her side, the event marks the 28-year-old’s comeback to competitive surfing after taking time away from the tour to become a mother – and now she can’t wait to bring it to the men in maximum style: “Having the opportunity to surf with five world champions in world class waves is any surfer’s dream. To have luxurious Four Seasons Resort accommodation as well is heaven. If I could have added one location the World Tour this would be it.”
Hardman and Hedges join an illustrious line-up of four other World Champions: Mark “Occy” Occhilupo (Australia) – the event’s defending champion and 1999 World Champion; Tom Curren (USA) – three-time world champion and true soul surfer; Martin “Potz” Potter (South Africa) – 1998 world champion, aerial-pioneer and all-round Mr Cool; and Phil Rajzman (Brazil) – Brazilian longboard master and 2007 World Champion.
Commenting on the final line-up and the competitive buzz surrounding the competition, Event Coordinator Mark Winson of Tropicsurf, the luxury surf pioneers behind the event, said, “It’s an amazing line-up, and despite the idyllic surrounds I’m sure that some old grudge matches will be rekindled come August. These world champions are competitors by nature and any of the six have what it takes to win the Trophy and USD 25,000.00. It’s going to be a very special few days.”
Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012 sees six ex-world champions battle it out on single-fin, twin-fin and triple-fin boards in a USD 25,000.00 showdown for the ultimate crown.
Billed as “the world’s most luxurious surfing event,” the Surfing Champions Trophy is hosted aboard Four Seasons Explorer – the Maldives ultimate surf vessel – with all competitors, judges and spectators taking up residence on the Resort’s paradisiacal private coral island for the duration of the event.
This year’s event will also feature the launch of the inauguralFour Seasons Maldives Domestic Champions Trophy 2012, a simultaneous contest between eight Maldivian surfers that is hotly anticipated to be the biggest ever showcase of Maldivian surfing.
Guests booking Kuda Huraa’s all-inclusive four or seven night Champions Trophy package – available from August 27 to September 2 only – can get right on top of the action with competition day passes aboard Four Seasons Explorer plus three half-day surfing passes with Tropicsurf. Back on land, they’ll also get to rub shoulders with their surfing heroes and experience a level of intimacy and camaraderie unique in competition surfing.
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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort adds padel court to wellness offering
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has introduced a new padel court as part of its ongoing development of wellness and recreational facilities, expanding its racquet sports offering alongside the existing tennis court at Vommuli House.
The addition reflects increasing global interest in padel and forms part of the resort’s approach to providing activity-based experiences for guests within its island setting. Located within landscaped surroundings, the court is available for both casual play and structured sessions, including coaching with a resident padel professional.
According to the resort, the facility is intended to cater to a range of skill levels and provides an option for guests seeking to incorporate physical activity into their stay.
The introduction of the padel court is part of a broader expansion of the resort’s wellness programme. Guests also have access to fitness and wellbeing activities including Tabata and boxing sessions, reformer Pilates, and guided yoga and meditation classes held at the Yoga Sala.
In addition, the resort has upgraded its fitness centre with equipment from Technogym, including the Artis Cardio, Skillrun and Strength series. The facility is designed to maximise natural light and views of the surrounding ocean environment.
The upgraded gym also includes the Technogym Checkup System, which provides assessments of body composition, posture and performance, allowing for the development of personalised fitness programmes for guests.
Through these additions, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to expand its wellness and recreation offering, with a focus on integrating fitness, sport and wellbeing into the guest experience.
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Dhawa Ihuru to celebrate marine heritage with Rannamaari Dive Fest this May
A story long resting beneath the surface returns this May, as Dhawa Ihuru invites guests and ocean enthusiasts to experience the Rannamaari Dive Fest 2026, taking place on 23 May 2026.
Set against one of the Maldives’ most accessible and vibrant house reefs — recognised among the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Asia (2025) and awarded Best Dive Resort by Travel Trade Maldives (2025) — Dhawa Ihuru offers a compelling setting for discovery both above and below the surface.

At the centre of the experience lies the Rannamaari Shipwreck, a former dredger deliberately sunk in 1999 just off the island’s shore. Today, it has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, drawing an abundance of marine life and offering an accessible yet captivating dive site for both beginners and experienced divers.
On 23 May, the island comes alive with a full-day programme designed to bring this underwater legend to life. Guests can explore the wreck through guided dives led by the resort’s PADI-certified Dive Centre, alongside activities such as underwater treasure hunts, marine discovery sessions, and interactive experiences with the resort’s Marine Lab.

Founded in 2004 as the first of its kind in the Maldives, our Marine Lab continues to pioneer reef protection and restoration efforts. During the festival, guests can engage with our marine biologists and gain deeper information into the ecosystems that sustain island life.
As part of the experience, guests will also be introduced to the resort’s pioneering underwater initiatives, including the Barnacle Project — the Maldives’ first electric reef, launched in 1996 — and the Necklace Reef, established in 1998. Today, these structures have evolved into thriving marine habitats, supporting coral growth and attracting a rich diversity of fish and marine life.

Beyond diving, the festival extends across the island with a vibrant mix of experiences for all. From watersports and island crafts to relaxed beachfront dining and family-friendly activities, the event reflects Dhawa Ihuru’s easy-going, all-inclusive approach – where everything is thoughtfully in place, so guests can simply arrive and enjoy.
“The Rannamaari is more than a shipwreck – it is a living symbol of how responsible marine initiatives can transform history into habitat. From its unexpected sinking in 1999 to becoming a thriving artificial reef and the heart of our signature dive events, Rannamaari reflects our commitment to marine conservation, meaningful guest experiences, and celebrating the Maldives’ deep connection with the ocean,” said Mujuthaba Ali, Marine Recreations Manager, Marine Centre, of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru offers seamless access to an island where reef, wreck, and relaxed island living come together.
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Siyam World expands activity line-up with 3K run and race
Part of the Lifestyle Collection of Sun Siyam, Siyam World has never really done “ordinary.” And with two of its most high-energy island experiences now firmly on the weekly roster, families, groups and anyone with a competitive streak have even more reason to book that trip.
Lace Up: The Siyam World 3K Wellness Run
Every week, guests gather at the start line for the Siyam World 3K Wellness Run, where good vibes meet great views. Clearly marked pathways guide the way to a marathon-style route around the island but the rules are simple: go at your own pace, take in the views, and enjoy the moment. Run it, jog it, or power-walk it with a smoothie in hand. No judgment here. Cross the finish line and you’ll earn an exclusive Siyam World 3K Run badge, the most stylish souvenir you’ll take home, and the ultimate bragging rights for completing a 3K on the most epic island in the Maldives. It’s all about moving, smiling, and enjoying the moment.
Game Faces On: The Amazing Race
For families and groups ready to turn up the heat, The Amazing Race is exactly what it sounds like, chaotic, competitive, and seriously good fun. Teams of up to five kick off at the starting point before racing across the island, completing challenges and hunting down clues at every turn. Five challenges. Multiple locations. Zero time to waste. It’s a test of speed, teamwork and quick thinking with a generous helping of chaos thrown in for good measure. And the rewards? Very worth running for. The winning team takes home a complimentary excursion, second place hits the waves on a banana boat, and third place gets behind the wheel at the Maldives’ first-ever resort based electric go-kart circuit. Not a bad consolation prize.
Whether you’re chasing that runner’s high, racing your kids across the island, or just looking for something a little different from the usual sun-lounger routine, Siyam World delivers. Every experience is designed to bring people together, keep the energy high, and create the kind of memories that don’t fade with the tan.
A World Beyond Your Wildest
Siyam World’s summer offer makes it easier than ever to say yes. Save up to 45% off, enjoy USD 150 resort credit, and settle in to Premium 24hrs WOW! All-inclusive from the moment you arrive. Stay 4 nights and a seaplane transfer is on the house — stay 7 and that extends to two guests, plus a floating breakfast for two. And for families, children under 12 stay completely free when sharing with adults. The only question is how long you can stay. Book your stay now.
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